Taurean Williams-Wells, 28

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Taurean (T Bone) E. Williams-Wells, 28, of Stapleton, who is remembered for his devotion to his family and his efforts to help his community, died May 15 in Richmond University Medical Center, West Brighton.

Born and raised in Stapleton, he graduated from Curtis High School — an achievement some doubted he would ever accomplish due to his dyslexia. When he received his diploma his family cheered so loudly for him he was embarrassed, they said. He also lived in East Orange and Roselle, N.J., for about five years before returning to Stapleton recently.

Mr. Williams-Wells was very protective of his family and always stood up for those in harm’s way, they said. He joined the Auxiliary Police at the North Shore’s 120th Precinct to try to help address problems in his neighborhood. He also was a member of “Youth in F.O.C.U.S.,” a Park Hill-based group committed to helping at-risk youth. He participated in rescue efforts at Ground Zero after 9/11, his family said.

After working for the New York Stock Exchange, he tried his hand at modeling and acting, and landed an appearance in “Law and Order.” He then turned to the music industry, representing and producing up-and-coming performers.

He was a proud Mason and dedicated member of Mount Zion Lodge #23.

He had an amazing smile, family said. He loved spending time with friends and his large extended family, and enjoyed eating home-cooked meals.